Well today I had an 81 FXWG follow me home. It runs great when I can get it started. The electric start just don't have what it takes to get her going. It seems like the starter is weak. This bike has had the S&S big bore kit put in about a year ago and S&S carb. The compression is really good. The kick start will finally get it started but it seems to take about 30 minutes when cold. Not really that long but seems like it. Now I have got to get a manual. Also lots of chrome that has been painted black that needs to be cleaned. Also seems to be several inches of wear n the shifter that needs attention. Any suggestions or advice is greatly appreciated.
Oldsarge29

 

No advise here, just wanted to say that it looks like you got a real nice project in the works there.

 

The Super series carbs start great once jetted spot on, check the S&S website for tuning videos. If the battery has any age at all replace it with a good battery, install a Battery Tender lead on it to keep it peaked. Most shovelhead guys run aftermarket ignitions that make em start really easy (1-3 kicks when cold) 1 kick when warm. There is a forum specific to shovelhead owners, sign up here. If you can kick start it, then a electric start should fire it up also, so its probably a battery,ignition,or jetting issue.

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http://www.shovelhead.us/forum/

 

Oh the envy! Wish there were more of those old-school bikes around here. Good luck with your project!

 

My all time favorite bike that Harley sold: the shovelhead wideglide.

Enjoy.

 

Nice!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Thanks. I know I will enjoy this ride. I have already found out that the parts list is going to be a big one. I gotta get a service and parts manual, speedometer and cable, turn signals, handlebars and a horn. I need to rewire the idiot lights because the only one working is the neutral light. Also need to replace the lenses over the idiot lights, I guess they were so old that they just crumbled when I pulled the dash to check the lights. Not sure what is going on with the jiffy stand, it looks like it has been heated and bent up. I would like to use stock or NOS parts to put her back together. I can see some paint in the future also. Hera are a few more shots before unloading,

 

Looks like a nice find. Are those PM calipers on the front? Also curious how much you paid for it. Ive been thinking about looking for an FLH shovel for a project.

 

Thanks, it seems to be in good shape overall. Not sure about the calipers, I will look when I get home. As far as price, I have about 3500 in it. Best deal that I found within striking distance.

 

The kick stand may have been shortened as the bike has shorter shocks on it. Watch out for the chain rubbing the primary under the starter, common on lowered bikes. There is a P.D.F thread over at the J.J. where you can download the shop manual. Big bore equals harder starting on an all ready weak system, but should kick over fine just needs a little more umph. $3500 a good deal. Remember to keep EVERYTHING tight and she'll treat you right.
WUZFUZ